Sonia Gandhi may retire from politics: TV report

Outgoing Congres president Sonia Gandhi has hinted that she may retire from politics after handing over the position to her son Rahul Gandhi, Times Now reported.

"My role is now to retire," said Sonia Gandhi.

The party, however, said Sonia wasn't leaving politics entirely. "Smt. Sonia Gandhi has retired as President of Indian National Congress and not from politics. Her blessings, wisdom and innate commitment to Congress ideology shall always be our guiding light," Congress national spokesperson Randeep Surjewala tweeted.


Rahul, who was recently elected Congress president, will formally take over tomorrow with the party organising a grand celebration in the national capital.

Sonia, who is also the longest-serving president of the party, assumed the responsibility in 1998 succeeding Sitaram Kesri.

Under her leadership, the party came to power in 2004. She steered the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) as its chairperson. She also headed the National Advisory Council (NAC).